Welcome to: Claims 4 Compensation

When it comes to compensation claims, the UK ranks last of all major European countries. Each injury here only garners us a pittance compare to damages awarded in the US. Despite that, last year, Amicus was awarded over £65 million for members injured at work and their families.

This is more an indication of the need for bosses to stop being negligent than it is an indication of an over-abundance of people filing claims.

Damages sued for can be "general damages" - a lump sum for the "pain and suffering" of the injury - and "special damages" - which cover actual financial losses caused by the accident. General damages which are very low in the UK where compensation for scarring may be as low as £1,000.

Toe injuries, which are common, should range between £20,000 and £31,000 if someone loses all of their toes and court guidelines are followed. This includes where part of the foot is lost, the ability to walk is affected, and ongoing pain and "phantom limb" syndrome, where you feel pain in parts of the body that are no longer there.

Special Damages usually go unclaimed by those unfamiliar with the process. These losses cover the loss of regular overtime and other benefits as well as the cost of treatment, medication, bandages and auxiliary care. For instance, if a relative has to come round to clean or garden then you can claim for their time at reasonable commercial rates.

Adjustments to your home or car often run into the hundreds of thousands of pounds and also can be recovered. You also can claim interest on money paid out, work done or where there is a delay in the insurer getting you the proper compensation.

Victims should, however, be wary of "no-win-no-fee" firms not only because there often is an up to 25% "winner's fee" but you also often have to pay hidden fees, such as if you abandon the case midstream.

Most claims processes take about three years to run their course. Claims also are time intensive, so the sooner you seek help, the better off you will be.